By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 21: The North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) on Saturday launched a large-scale tree plantation drive titled ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, aimed at promoting environmental conservation and honouring Mother Nature.
According to a statement here, the campaign was launched today by NEIGRIHMS Director, Prof. Nalin Mehta, in collaboration with the Forest and Environment department.
The launch event was attended by several dignitaries, including Principal Chief Conservator of Forest & Head of the Forest Force, Meghalaya, RS Gill; Medical Superintendent, NEIGRIHMS, Prof. C. Daniala; Dean, NEIGRIHMS, Prof. A. Santa Singh; Divisional Forest Officer, Social Forestry Division, H. Lato; Range Forest Officer, Shillong Social Forestry Range, E. Kyndiah; and Vice Principal of the College of Nursing, Prof. Namita Singha.
During the programme, Gill lauded NEIGRIHMS for its efforts in promoting environmental awareness, noting that Meghalaya boasts nearly 76 per cent forest cover.
He also commended the institution’s commitment to expanding this initiative.
Prof. Mehta, on the other hand, expressed his gratitude to the Forest and Environment Department for providing 400 saplings for the event.
He emphasised that the tree plantation campaign, part of a nationwide initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, encourages people to plant trees in honour of their mothers and care for the saplings with dedication.
Prof. Mehta also suggested expanding this concept by planting trees in the names of other family members to strengthen the campaign’s impact.